Many parents ask us about individual and small-group basketball training for their child. While the Rhode Island Magic focuses on team development, individual training is an excellent way for players to accelerate their improvement when done correctly.

 

There are many qualified basketball trainers, as well as strength and performance coaches who specialize in improving speed, agility, strength, conditioning, and overall athleticism. Before investing in training, we encourage families to consider the following recommendations.

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Identifying the goals of your training

 

Before beginning any training program, have a conversation with your child about what they hope to accomplish.

 

We also recommend speaking with the trainer before your first session to discuss those goals and ensure they align with the trainer's areas of expertise.

 

For middle and high school players, these goals should also align with their role on their school and AAU teams. While every player dreams of playing at the next level, it is important to remember that only about 3–4% of high school basketball players continue on to play college basketball. For most athletes, maximizing their role on their middle school, high school, and AAU teams will provide the greatest opportunity for success and enjoyment.

Selecting the Right Trainer

 

Finding the right trainer is just as important as deciding to train.

 

Look for someone who:

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• Has strong recommendations and a proven track record.

• Possesses meaningful playing and/or coaching experience.

• Has experience working with players of your child's age and skill level.

• Creates a positive, encouraging, and challenging learning environment.

• Communicates clearly with both players and parents.

 

A quality trainer should begin by evaluating your child's strengths and areas for improvement before designing a personalized training plan.

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Look for Individualized Training

 

No two players are exactly alike, and their training shouldn't be either.

 

A quality trainer will develop a program that:

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• Focuses on your child's individual goals.

• Improves weaknesses while continuing to develop strengths.

• Provides drills and exercises that players can continue practicing independently between sessions.

• Gives players "homework" so improvement continues outside of scheduled workouts.

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Prioritize Game-Transferable Skills

 

The best training prepares players for real game situations.

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Ask yourself:

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• Are the drills teaching skills that actually occur during games?

• Are players learning how to make decisions under pressure?

• Is defensive development included?

• Is footwork being emphasized?

• Are players learning to read defenders instead of simply performing choreographed moves?

 

Players rarely dribble 15 times before taking a shot during a game. Effective trainers focus on efficient, game-like movements that translate directly to competition.

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Before Purchasing a Training Package

 

We recommend trying a single training session before committing to a package.

 

Following that first workout, ask yourself:

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• Did my child enjoy the session?

• Was the trainer organized and prepared?

• Was instruction clear and constructive?

• Did the trainer communicate well?

• Does this feel like a good fit?

 

If everyone agrees it's a good match, create a training schedule and clearly discuss expectations moving forward.​

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Evaluate Progress

 

As training continues, regularly evaluate whether your child's goals are being achieved.

 

Whenever possible, goals should be measurable.

 

For strength and performance training, improvements may include:

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• Speed

• Vertical jump

• Strength

• Agility

• Endurance

 

For basketball skill development, improvements should become noticeable through increased confidence, improved decision-making, better fundamentals, and stronger game performance.

Regular communication between the trainer, player, and family helps ensure everyone remains focused on the same objectives.

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Final Thoughts

 

Individual training can be an outstanding investment when it reinforces sound fundamentals, develops game-transferable skills, and supports your child's long-term growth.

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The best trainers don't simply teach basketball skills—they build confidence, develop work habits, encourage accountability, and help players become better teammates.

 

If you have questions about selecting a trainer or determining whether additional training is appropriate for your child, please don't hesitate to contact the Rhode Island Magic. We are always happy to help point families in the right direction.